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UNESCO on the frontline to ensure effective operationalization of gender desks in higher education
On October 2 and 3, 2024, UNESCO, through the O3Plus Project, held a technical meeting to review the operationalization of the Ministry鈥檚 Gender Desk Guidelines in higher learning institutions supported by the project. In collaboration with the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, UNESCO gathered 53 participants, including representatives from the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, NATCOM, O3Plus Project focal persons, gender desk coordinators, and students.
The meeting aimed to foster a deeper understanding of the Ministry鈥檚 guidelines, the O3Plus Project, and associated indicators and targets. Participants came together to exchange experiences and insights on managing and monitoring gender desks on HTEIs campuses. The event also marked the beginning of a community of learning network for gender desk coordinators, a platform for participants to share knowledge, discuss challenges and opportunities, and explore solutions collaboratively.
Speaking during the official opening, the Director for Gender, Mr. Badru Abdunuru, from the Ministry of Community Development, Gender Women and Special Groups said,
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to UNESCO for their unwavering support and invaluable contributions in fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment
UNESCO鈥檚 O3Plus Project has been underway for over two years, reaching 26 universities across Tanzania- 24 on the mainland and 2 on Zanzibar. Throughout this time, more than 100,000 university students have benefited from various project interventions, including the establishment and operation of gender desks in higher learning institutions, the delivery of Provider-Led Peer Assisted Programs, and the offering of an online course in Comprehensive Sexuality Education.
